Goldfeder Pushes For Bus Time

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Ozone Park) recently urged the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to immediately expand their real-time bus tracker, the MTA Bus Time App, to cover all Queens bus routes. MTA Bus Time allows travelers to locate their next approaching bus via smart phone, web or text message through a GPS tracking system serviced by the MTA.

AssemblymanPhil Goldfeder

“Waiting for a bus in Queens should not be a guessing game,” Goldfeder said. “I applaud the MTA for using technology to better their services for customers and I strongly urge them to include all New Yorkers in their latest advances and implement the real-time bus locator app for Queens residents as soon as possible.”

Goldfeder has sent a letter to MTA Chairman Thomas F. Prendergast, urging him to implement the Bus Time App for all Queens’ commuters. Bringing the Bus Time App to Queens will encourage ridership and improve the overall experience of public transit by reducing travel uncertainty, which often leads to more Queens residents depending on vehicles as a means for transportation, Goldfeder noted in his letter.

According to the U.S. Census, New Yorkers have shown to have one of the longest commute times throughout the country, with nearly half traveling from outer-boroughs, including Queens. Improving bus service in Queens with the Bus Time App will allow residents to regain control over their commutes and keep more vehicles off our congested roadways.

According to the MTA, GPS trackers have been installed in 1,034 buses and nearly 3,365 computer databases can be found at bus stops throughout Staten Island, Manhattan and the Bronx. The MTA has previously stated they are considering the Bus Time App for Queens, but have not set any start dates.